Abstract

The ultimate amplifier in the Aurora system was originally conceived as a stackable module suitable for construction of much larger systems.1,2 The name habitually used to describe it, large aperture module (LAM), Is derived from this concept. The principal initial objective of what is now named Aurora was to test the viability of this module and obtain working experience with it. Although it is no longer clear that this is the largest feasible amplifier size,3 or even that a large amplifier size is advantageous,4 it is still true that the working experience gained in Aurora creates a special place for this particular module size. Any alternate proposal for a midterm construction project must promise a considerable improvement to justify the delay required to develop a similar basis of experience.

© 1987 Optical Society of America